Lights, Camera, Action! Ultimate Guide to Prep for Your Photoshoot
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Hey there! Chris Zdarko with Zdarko Photography here, your photoshoot prep guru. You've booked a photoshoot, congratulations! Now, let's get you prepped for your close-up.
Mental Preparedness: Conquering the Camera Jitters
Stepping in front of the camera can feel a bit like walking the red carpet – exciting, but maybe a little nerve-wracking. Fear not! Here's how to channel your inner supermodel:
Embrace the Awkwardness: Let's be honest, everyone feels a little awkward at first. It's okay! Embrace the awkwardness and have some fun with it. Remember, I'm here to guide you and make you feel comfortable.
Bring a Friend (or a Furry Friend!): Having a trusted companion by your side can help ease those pre-shoot jitters. Feel free to bring a friend, a family member, or even your favorite pet (as long as they're well-behaved, of course!).
Focus on the Fun: The goal is to capture genuine smiles and create lasting memories. Try to relax, have fun, and let your personality shine through.
Leading Up to the Shoot: The "Don't Do" List
Now for the important part: the "don't do" list.
Avoid Sudden Changes: Resist the urge to try a drastic new hairstyle or color right before the shoot. You might love it, but if you don't, you might not have time to fix it before the big day.
Skip the Tanning Salon (or the Sun): A natural glow is always best. Avoid excessive sun exposure, tanning sprays, or tanning beds in the days leading up to the shoot to prevent uneven skin tones.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate! Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your session. Hydrated skin looks its best!
Day of Shoot Preparedness: Let's Get Ready to Rumble!
Arrive Early: Punctuality is key! Arriving a few minutes early allows for a relaxed start and gives us ample time to get settled.
Pack Your Snacks (and Water!): Photoshoots can take time, so bring along some snacks and water to keep your energy levels up.
Dress Comfortably: Choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable. Have more than one? Bring the closet! (Don’t forget to dress for the weather elements, too!)
Empty Your Pockets: Don't forget to empty your pockets of any lint, keys, phones, or other distractions.
Music: Bring a speaker or feel free to play your favorite playlist on your phone to really help the vibe and help you feel more natural in front of the camera.
Wrist and Accessory Check: We don’t want your hair tie on your wrist, and make sure your necklace and other accessories look good!
Glasses: Keep in mind in great lighting, glasses will often reflect light (or transition glasses will go dark).
Communicate with Your Photographer: If you have any concerns or requests, don't hesitate to communicate them with me. If your creativity hits you, feel free to suggest certain poses or shots!
Last-Minute Pack Prep: Don’t forget the lint roller, eyebrow gel, lip gloss, or any props!
Families: Bring the kids favorite doll or stuffed animal. Seeing them interact and play might help ease the fact there is a camera on them. You could even bring any sentimental heirlooms, or even a fun way to announce that you're expecting a little one!
Glamour: Could be designer handbags, champagne, or battery powered string lights for some really cool effects!
Branding: Any published articles, your favorite book, or champagne for a celebration is a fun start!
Seniors: Any sports you play, bring something from it (a jersey, a ball, a racket), any instruments you play, or anything else you’d like to incorporate to infuse your style!
And Finally...
Most importantly, remember to relax and enjoy the experience! This is your time to shine.
Bonus Dad Joke:
I wanted to take pictures of the fog this morning.
But I mist my chance, so I guess I could dew it tomorrow!
I hope these tips help you feel prepared and excited for your upcoming photoshoot. Let's create some amazing memories together!
Don't sweat the small stuff. The photoshoot will be amazing, I just know it. Show up, just be prepared to the best of your ability, and be ready to be a rock star!
